From Downtown Conroe to Old Town Spring, retailers and restaurants across north Houston began the process of reopening May 1. Under recently relaxed guidelines from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, all nonessential retailers and restaurants must operate at no more than 25% capacity in an effort to minimize the spread of COVID-19.

Although the stay-at-home order has expired, public health officials in Harris County have continued to ask people to avoid nonessential travel, wear face coverings when in public and follow hygiene guidelines.

"We are still experiencing entirely way too many COVID-19 cases in our community to become noncommittal," Harris Health System President Dr. Esmaeil Porsa said May 1. "As we take a moment to appreciate out collective success in flattening the curve, I want us to be mindful of the danger that remains and ask everyone to join me to double down and do absolutely everything we can as we take steps to reclaim our lives."

While some restaurants are continuing to operate on a strictly to-go basis, and some businesses are opting to stay closed altogether. The gallery above includes scenes from parts of the north Houston area that are up and running.